Christians and Social Media

There’s no doubt that the world changed forever with the invention of social media. People were able to connect with long-lost friends, relatives, loves, etc. They were able to share their lives with the world. We were able to meet people from all over the world in an instant. There was a sudden change in the landscape of the internet and what it could be used for. And while “influencers” were still a long way away, I think that those of us who were there in the early days of social media knew that the internet would never be the same. 

While those early days of social media were exciting, the apps and websites of social media today have changed dramatically. Now it’s less about connecting with people you know and more about growing a following, sharing every aspect of your life, or trying to become an “influencer” and grow your reach. The dynamics of social media have completely changed, and I think it is pertinent to consider how Christians should view and interact with social media today. 

For starters, this isn’t a rant against social media. I have several social media accounts that I post to regularly. I am pro-social media on the whole. But, as a Christian, I think we always have to consider how we can use every tool available to us for the glory of God. Everything we do every day should be done so that God receives the glory and His kingdom is made great. Our interaction and use of social media is no different. When we spend time scrolling social media, messaging and interacting with people or making posts ourselves, we have to consider the impact it might have for the kingdom. Now, we don’t have to make every single post a theological one, or a Bible verse, that would just be silly. But when you post something, make sure the language you are using is uplifting and encouraging. Make sure the photo is genuine and modest. Like and comment in ways that motivate and encourage others or points them to Christ. Avoid using negative language, starting fights, or engaging in things that don’t represent Christ well because whether we know it or not, people are watching.

Social media can be a great force for the advancement of the gospel and the growth of God’s kingdom, but it can also be a deadly force that destroys our lives and our witness. I encourage you to think hard about how you use social media. Use it for God’s kingdom. Use it to be a witness for Christ. Use it in a way that honors God.